Major Mohit Sharma

The latest social media buzz and chatter around Major Mohit Sharma resurfaced powerfully in late 2025, not because of an anniversary or tribute, but because of a controversy linked to the film Dhurandhar. As promotional material for the film circulated, speculation grew that its protagonist, an undercover officer working in Kashmir, was modelled after Major Mohit Sharma.

His parents filed a petition, stating the resemblance of the character to Major Mohit Sharma was emotionally distressing and unauthorised. Although the filmmakers clarified that Dhurandhar is inspired by events from Karachi’s Lyari gang wars and not directly by the life of Major Mohit Sharma, the debate had already started a public estimation: how should India remember, represent, and honour its real heroes, through movies or their achievements?

Later, the conversations grew across newsrooms, defence circles, and social media platforms. Posts from veteran organisations and pages associated with the Indian Army amplified his name once again. Discussions became less about the movie and more about the extraordinary life that was being linked to it. And with that, Major Mohit Sharma returned to national acknowledgement, not as a reference point for the movie Dhurandhar, but as a symbol of courage.

Born on January 13, 1978, in Rohtak, Haryana, Major Mohit Sharma grew up in a modest middle-class home. Behind his calm and composed demeanour was a determined dream to serve the nation. His early education journey reflected not just academic interest but also resilience. He initially pursued engineering, but later chose the path of service to the nation instead.

To qualify for military entry standards, he pushed his limits and made an effort to gain 8 kilograms in just 20 days to be eligible for the National Defence Academy. That resolve marked the beginning of a path that would change Indian military history. His next milestone came when he joined the Indian Military Academy, where his leadership stood out strongly enough to earn him the role of Battalion Cadet Adjutant.

Even in training, his excellent skills and performance were evident. He mastered swimming, boxing, horse riding, and shooting. His horse, fondly called Indira, was a companion during his early military years, another reminder of the young officer who led with both discipline and heart.

When Major Mohit Sharma began his service after being commissioned in 1999, he soon became known for more than just discipline and academia; he was defined by action. During his assignment with 38 Rashtriya Rifles, his sharp instincts and fearless approach earned him a Chief of Army Staff Commendation.

Later, he volunteered for the Para Special Forces and earned the iconic maroon beret, symbolising operational excellence and unmatched endurance. Becoming a Para Commando requires relentless grit, and Major Mohit Sharma passed one of the toughest probations in military service.

Not long after, he led operations that earned him the Sena Medal. Through every deployment, he represented the ethos of the Indian Army: Courage beyond comfort, duty before self.

There was a point in his career when Major Mohit Sharma stepped into an unprecedented battlefield. He went undercover under an assumed identity for a quiet mission that would later become the highlight of his career. He lived among militants, passed critical intelligence, and helped neutralise high-value operatives. The risks associated with this mission were immense, as one misstep could have meant torture or execution for him. Yet he continued and returned, quietly, completely aware that his duty had much in store for him.

On March 21, 2009, Major Mohit Sharma led a forward assault team in the Hafruda Forest, Kupwara. The encounter was intense. When two commandos were pinned down, he did not hesitate to retaliate. While he was severely wounded, he dragged them to safety under a barrage of enemy fire. Then, refusing to withdraw, he charged ahead and eliminated four terrorists in close combat.

His final order to his team remains etched in emotion and strength: “Firing rukni nahi chahiye, yahi training hai, yahi farz hai.”

He fell moments later, at the age of 31. For his exceptional courage, Major Mohit Sharma was awarded the Ashoka Chakra posthumously. His wife, also an officer in the Indian Army, received the honour on his behalf.

His impact did not end with his passing. Delhi Metro immortalised his name by renaming a station in Ghaziabad. Books, including the widely read India’s Most Fearless 2, preserve his story. Cadets at the Indian Military Academy reference him as an example of leadership that does not boast, but delivers.

And now, years later, the conversations sparked by Dhurandhar once again remind India of his sacrifice, not in controversy, but in reverence.

Why Heroes Like Major Mohit Sharma Matter

Major Mohit Sharma symbolises more than gallantry. He represents the unspoken sacrifices carried out quietly across mountains, forests, and borders, where the uniform is worn not for applause, but for responsibility.

As the public debates representation, storytelling, and respect, one truth remains constant:

Heroes like Major Mohit Sharma are remembered irrespective of time. Every time the nation seeks inspiration, their stories rise and get highlighted. And in every remembrance, whether through a metro station name, a movie controversy, a book, or a classroom, his story continues to strengthen the spirit of India and generations to come.